1
|
Vilaplana-Lopera N, Besh M, Moon EJ. Targeting Hypoxia: Revival of Old Remedies. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1604. [PMID: 34827602 PMCID: PMC8615589 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour hypoxia is significantly correlated with patient survival and treatment outcomes. At the molecular level, hypoxia is a major driving factor for tumour progression and aggressiveness. Despite the accumulative scientific and clinical efforts to target hypoxia, there is still a need to find specific treatments for tumour hypoxia. In this review, we discuss a variety of approaches to alter the low oxygen tumour microenvironment or hypoxia pathways including carbogen breathing, hyperthermia, hypoxia-activated prodrugs, tumour metabolism and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) inhibitors. The recent advances in technology and biological understanding reveal the importance of revisiting old therapeutic regimens and repurposing their uses clinically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eui Jung Moon
- Department of Oncology, MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, University of Oxford, Headington OX3 7DQ, UK; (N.V.-L.); (M.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Subcellular Location of Tirapazamine Reduction Dramatically Affects Aerobic but Not Anoxic Cytotoxicity. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25214888. [PMID: 33105798 PMCID: PMC7660101 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25214888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is an adverse prognostic feature of solid cancers that may be overcome with hypoxia-activated prodrugs (HAPs). Tirapazamine (TPZ) is a HAP which has undergone extensive clinical evaluation in this context and stimulated development of optimized analogues. However the subcellular localization of the oxidoreductases responsible for mediating TPZ-dependent DNA damage remains unclear. Some studies conclude only nuclear-localized oxidoreductases can give rise to radical-mediated DNA damage and thus cytotoxicity, whereas others identify a broader role for endoplasmic reticulum and cytosolic oxidoreductases, indicating the subcellular location of TPZ radical formation is not a critical requirement for DNA damage. To explore this question in intact cells we engineered MDA-231 breast cancer cells to express the TPZ reductase human NADPH: cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) harboring various subcellular localization sequences to guide this flavoenzyme to the nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum, cytosol or inner surface of the plasma membrane. We show that all POR variants are functional, with differences in rates of metabolism reflecting enzyme expression levels rather than intracellular TPZ concentration gradients. Under anoxic conditions, POR expression in all subcellular compartments increased the sensitivity of the cells to TPZ, but with a fall in cytotoxicity per unit of metabolism (termed ‘metabolic efficiency’) when POR is expressed further from the nucleus. However, under aerobic conditions a much larger increase in cytotoxicity was observed when POR was directed to the nucleus, indicating very high metabolic efficiency. Consequently, nuclear metabolism results in collapse of hypoxic selectivity of TPZ, which was further magnified to the point of reversing O2 dependence (oxic > hypoxic sensitivity) by employing a DNA-affinic TPZ analogue. This aerobic hypersensitivity phenotype was partially rescued by cellular copper depletion, suggesting the possible involvement of Fenton-like chemistry in generating short-range effects mediated by the hydroxyl radical. In addition, the data suggest that under aerobic conditions reoxidation strictly limits the TPZ radical diffusion range resulting in site-specific cytotoxicity. Collectively these novel findings challenge the purported role of intra-nuclear reductases in orchestrating the hypoxia selectivity of TPZ.
Collapse
|
3
|
Shen H, Cook K, Gee HE, Hau E. Hypoxia, metabolism, and the circadian clock: new links to overcome radiation resistance in high-grade gliomas. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2020; 39:129. [PMID: 32631383 PMCID: PMC7339573 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01639-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is the cornerstone of treatment of high-grade gliomas (HGGs). It eradicates tumor cells by inducing oxidative stress and subsequent DNA damage. Unfortunately, almost all HGGs recur locally within several months secondary to radioresistance with intricate molecular mechanisms. Therefore, unravelling specific underlying mechanisms of radioresistance is critical to elucidating novel strategies to improve the radiosensitivity of tumor cells, and enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy. This review addresses our current understanding of how hypoxia and the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) signaling pathway have a profound impact on the response of HGGs to radiotherapy. In addition, intriguing links between hypoxic signaling, circadian rhythms and cell metabolism have been recently discovered, which may provide insights into our fundamental understanding of radioresistance. Cellular pathways involved in the hypoxic response, DNA repair and metabolism can fluctuate over 24-h periods due to circadian regulation. These oscillatory patterns may have consequences for tumor radioresistance. Timing radiotherapy for specific times of the day (chronoradiotherapy) could be beneficial in patients with HGGs and will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Shen
- Translational Radiation Biology and Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145, Australia.
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Kristina Cook
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health & Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Harriet E Gee
- Translational Radiation Biology and Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eric Hau
- Translational Radiation Biology and Oncology Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Blacktown Hematology and Cancer Centre, Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chargari C, Levy A, Paoletti X, Soria JC, Massard C, Weichselbaum RR, Deutsch E. Methodological Development of Combination Drug and Radiotherapy in Basic and Clinical Research. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:4723-4736. [PMID: 32409306 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-4155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Newer technical improvements in radiation oncology have been rapidly implemented in recent decades, allowing an improved therapeutic ratio. The development of strategies using local and systemic treatments concurrently, mainly targeted therapies, has however plateaued. Targeted molecular compounds and immunotherapy are increasingly being incorporated as the new standard of care for a wide array of cancers. A better understanding of possible prior methodology issues is therefore required and should be integrated into upcoming early clinical trials including individualized radiotherapy-drug combinations. The outcome of clinical trials is influenced by the validity of the preclinical proofs of concept, the impact on normal tissue, the robustness of biomarkers and the quality of the delivery of radiation. Herein, key methodological aspects are discussed with the aim of optimizing the design and implementation of future precision drug-radiotherapy trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Université Paris-Sud, Orsay, France
- INSERM U1030, Molecular Radiotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
- Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, Brétigny sur Orge, France
| | - Antonin Levy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France.
- Université Paris-Sud, Orsay, France
- INSERM U1030, Molecular Radiotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Xavier Paoletti
- University of Versailles St. Quentin, France
- Institut Curie INSERM U900, Biostatistics for Personalized Medicine Team, St. Cloud, France
| | | | - Christophe Massard
- Université Paris-Sud, Orsay, France
- Drug Development Department (DITEP), Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Ralph R Weichselbaum
- Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Eric Deutsch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France.
- Université Paris-Sud, Orsay, France
- INSERM U1030, Molecular Radiotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mistry IN, Thomas M, Calder EDD, Conway SJ, Hammond EM. Clinical Advances of Hypoxia-Activated Prodrugs in Combination With Radiation Therapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2017; 98:1183-1196. [PMID: 28721903 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2017.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
With the increasing incidence of cancer worldwide, the need for specific, effective therapies is ever more urgent. One example of targeted cancer therapeutics is hypoxia-activated prodrugs (HAPs), also known as bioreductive prodrugs. These prodrugs are inactive in cells with normal oxygen levels but in hypoxic cells (with low oxygen levels) undergo chemical reduction to the active compound. Hypoxia is a common feature of solid tumors and is associated with a more aggressive phenotype and resistance to all modes of therapy. Therefore, the combination of radiation therapy and bioreductive drugs presents an attractive opportunity for synergistic effects, because the HAP targets the radiation-resistant hypoxic cells. Hypoxia-activated prodrugs have typically been precursors of DNA-damaging agents, but a new generation of molecularly targeted HAPs is emerging. By targeting proteins associated with tumorigenesis and survival, these compounds may result in greater selectivity over healthy tissue. We review the clinical progress of HAPs as adjuncts to radiation therapy and conclude that the use of HAPs alongside radiation is vastly underexplored at the clinical level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ishna N Mistry
- Cancer Research UK/Medical Research Council Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Thomas
- Cancer Research UK/Medical Research Council Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ewen D D Calder
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart J Conway
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ester M Hammond
- Cancer Research UK/Medical Research Council Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
The radiation stress response can have broad impact. In this Failla Award presentation it is discussed in three components using terms relevant to the current political season as to how the radiation stress response can be applied to the benefit for cancer care and as service to society. Of the people refers to the impact of radiation on cells, tissues and patients. The paradigm our laboratory uses is radiation as a drug, called "focused biology", and physics as "nano-IMRT" because at the nanometer level physics and biology merge. By the people refers to how the general population often reacts to the word "radiation" and how the Radiation Research Society can better enable society to deal with the current realities of radiation in our lives. For the people refers to the potential for radiation oncology and radiation sciences to improve the lives of millions of people globally who are now beyond benefits of cancer treatment and research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C. Norman Coleman
- Associate Director, Radiation Research Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis; Senior Investigator, Radiation Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; and Senior Medical Advisor, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington DC
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Molecular targeting of hypoxia in radiotherapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 109:45-62. [PMID: 27771366 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia (low O2) is an essential microenvironmental driver of phenotypic diversity in human solid cancers. Hypoxic cancer cells hijack evolutionarily conserved, O2- sensitive pathways eliciting molecular adaptations that impact responses to radiotherapy, tumor recurrence and patient survival. In this review, we summarize the radiobiological, genetic, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms orchestrating oncogenic responses to hypoxia. In addition, we outline emerging hypoxia- targeting strategies that hold promise for individualized cancer therapy in the context of radiotherapy and drug delivery.
Collapse
|
8
|
Badar T, Handisides DR, Benito JM, Richie MA, Borthakur G, Jabbour E, Harutyunyan K, Konoplev S, Faderl S, Kroll S, Andreeff M, Pearce T, Kantarjian HM, Cortes JE, Thomas DA, Konopleva M. Phase I study of evofosfamide, an investigational hypoxia-activated prodrug, in patients with advanced leukemia. Am J Hematol 2016; 91:800-5. [PMID: 27169385 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.24415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Revised: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Tumor hypoxia causes resistance to radiation and chemotherapy. Evofosfamide (TH-302) has exhibited specific hypoxia-dependent cytotoxicity against primary acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) samples in vitro. Based on these findings, a Phase I study of evofosfamide was designed for patients with relapsed/refractory leukemia (NCT01149915). In this open-label study, patients were treated with evofosfamide as a 30-60 min/day infusion on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle (Arm A, n = 38) or as a continuous infusion over 120 hr over Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle (Arm B, n = 11). Forty-nine patients were treated including 39 (80%) with AML and 9 (18%) with ALL. Patients had received a median of five prior therapies. In Arm A, the dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were grade 3 esophagitis, observed at a dose of 550 mg/m(2) . The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was a daily dose of 460 mg/m(2) . In Arm B, the DLTs were grade 3 stomatitis and hyperbilirubinemia, observed at a daily dose of 460 mg/m(2) . The continuous infusion MTD was a daily dose of 330 mg/m(2) . Hypoxia markers HIF-1α and CAIX were highly expressed in leukemic bone marrow and were significantly reduced after evofosfamide therapy. The combined overall response rate in Arms A and B was 6% (2 CR/CRi and 1 PR), with all responses seen in Arm A. Evofosfamide has shown limited activity in heavily pretreated leukemia patients. Further evaluation investigating evofosfamide in combination with cytotoxic or demethylating agents is warranted. Am. J. Hematol. 91:800-805, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Talha Badar
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | | | - Juliana M. Benito
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Mary Ann Richie
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Gautam Borthakur
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Elias Jabbour
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Karine Harutyunyan
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Sergej Konoplev
- Department of Hematopathology; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Stefan Faderl
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Stew Kroll
- Threshold Pharmaceuticals; South San Francisco California
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Tillman Pearce
- Threshold Pharmaceuticals; South San Francisco California
| | - Hagop M. Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Jorge E. Cortes
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Deborah A. Thomas
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Leukemia; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Houston Texas
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
DiSilvestro PA, Ali S, Craighead PS, Lucci JA, Lee YC, Cohn DE, Spirtos NM, Tewari KS, Muller C, Gajewski WH, Steinhoff MM, Monk BJ. Phase III randomized trial of weekly cisplatin and irradiation versus cisplatin and tirapazamine and irradiation in stages IB2, IIA, IIB, IIIB, and IVA cervical carcinoma limited to the pelvis: a Gynecologic Oncology Group study. J Clin Oncol 2014; 32:458-64. [PMID: 24395863 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2013.51.4265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This prospective, randomized phase III intergroup trial of the Gynecologic Oncology Group and National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group was designed to test the effectiveness and safety of adding the hypoxic cell sensitizer tirapazamine (TPZ) to standard cisplatin (CIS) chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced cervix cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with locally advanced cervix cancer were randomly assigned to CIS chemoradiotherapy versus CIS/TPZ chemoradiotherapy. Primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary end points included overall survival (OS) and tolerability. RESULTS PFS was evaluable in 387 of 402 patients randomly assigned over 36 months, with enrollment ending in September 2009. Because of the lack of TPZ supply, the study did not reach its original target accrual goal. At median follow-up of 28.3 months, PFS and OS were similar in both arms. Three-year PFS for the TPZ/CIS/RT and CIS/RT arms were 63.0% and 64.4%, respectively (log-rank P = .7869). Three-year OS for the TPZ/CIS/RT and CIS/RT arms were 70.5% and 70.6%, respectively (log-rank P = .8333). A scheduled interim safety analysis led to a reduction in the starting dose for the TPZ/CIS arm, with resulting tolerance in both treatment arms. CONCLUSION TPZ/CIS chemoradiotherapy was not superior to CIS chemoradiotherapy in either PFS or OS, although definitive commentary was limited by an inadequate number of events (progression or death). TPZ/CIS chemoradiotherapy was tolerable at a modified starting dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul A DiSilvestro
- Paul A. DiSilvestro and Margaret M. Steinhoff, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI; Shamshad Ali, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo; Yi-Chun Lee, State University of New York Health Science Center, Brooklyn, NY; Peter S. Craighead, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Joseph A. Lucci, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL; David E. Cohn, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH; Nicola M. Spirtos, Women's Cancer Center of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV; Krishnasu S. Tewari, University of California Medical Center, Irvine, Orange, CA; Carolyn Muller, University of New Mexico Memorial Medical Center, Albuquerque, NM; Walter H. Gajewski, Zimmer Cancer Center, Wilmington, NC; and Bradley J. Monk, Creighton University School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Huang T, Mueller S, Rutkowski MJ, Han SJ, Bloch O, Barani IJ, Parsa AT, Chang SM. Multidisciplinary care of patients with brain tumors. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2013; 22:161-78. [PMID: 23453330 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Patients with brain tumors are some of the most complex patients in the medical system, necessitating treatment teams of multiple subspecialists for optimal care. This article examines the roles of these subspecialists, with the goal of summarizing standard-of-care practices, recent therapeutic advances, and ongoing clinical investigations within each subspecialty.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tannie Huang
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jung D, Jiao H, Duan JX, Matteucci M, Wang R. Metabolism, pharmacokinetics and excretion of a novel hypoxia activated cytotoxic prodrug, TH-302, in rats. Xenobiotica 2011; 42:372-88. [PMID: 22004352 DOI: 10.3109/00498254.2011.622810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The metabolism, pharmacokinetics and excretion of a hypoxically activating prodrug developed for the treatment of cancer, TH-302, were studied in rats following intravenous administration of 50 mg/kg [(14)C]-TH-302. The pharmacokinetics of TH-302 was characterized by a short half-life of 12.3 min, a high clearance of 2.29 L/h/kg and a volume of distribution of 0.627 L/kg. In intact and bile duct-cannulated rats, TH-302 was extensively metabolized with total recovery in excreta of 68.1% and 85.8%, respectively, with equal amounts excreted through urine and bile. Quantitative whole body autoradiography showed rapid distribution of [(14)C]-TH-302 associated radioactivity with the highest concentrations in the kidney and small intestinal content, suggesting significant biliary excretion and/or gut secretion. TH-302 was metabolized via (i) hydrolysis to form 2-bromoethyl amine RM3 (7.5%); (ii) monoglutathione conjugation and subsequently to the mercapturic acid RM13 (7.5%); and (iii) diglutathione conjugation followed by hydrolysis to form the dicysteine conjugate RM5 (6.5%). A large percentage (19.7%) of the dose in the excreta was associated with unidentified polar metabolites RM1 and RM2. TH-302 was the predominant circulating component in plasma and the two major metabolites in plasma were the cysteine conjugate RM8 and mercapturic acid RM13.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald Jung
- Threshold Pharmaceuticals, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jung D, Lin L, Jiao H, Cai X, Duan JX, Matteucci M. Pharmacokinetics of TH-302: a hypoxically activated prodrug of bromo-isophosphoramide mustard in mice, rats, dogs and monkeys. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2011; 69:643-54. [PMID: 21964906 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-011-1741-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2011] [Accepted: 09/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize the pharmacokinetics of the prodrug, TH-302, and its active metabolite, bromo-IPM (Br-IPM), in nonclinical species. METHODS TH-302 was administered in single oral, intraperitoneal and intravenous bolus doses to mice, rats, dogs and monkeys as well as in acute and chronic safety studies in rats and dogs as a 30-min intravenous infusion given once a week for 3 weeks. Assessments were made using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS TH-302 was extensively distributed with high systemic clearance exceeding hepatic plasma flow in all species studied, resulting in half-lives ranging between 8 min (mice) and over 4 h (rats). In rats, TH-302 exhibited linear kinetics following intravenous administration and good oral bioavailability. In acute and chronic safety studies, there was no accumulation of TH-302 following once weekly dosing for 3 weeks in the rat and dog. Br-IPM plasma concentrations were a small fraction of the TH-302 plasma concentrations with significantly smaller percentages present in dogs than in rats. Allometric scaling predicted that the systemic clearance and steady-state volume of distribution in humans would be 38.8 l/h/m(2) and 34.3 l/m(2), respectively, resulting in a terminal elimination half-life of about 36 min. These values were similar to those observed in patients with solid tumors (27.1 l/h/m(2), 23.5 l/m(2) and 47 min). CONCLUSIONS TH-302 exhibited good safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetic properties in nonclinical species, translating into favorable properties in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald Jung
- Department of Nonclinical and Clinical Pharmacology, Threshold Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 170 Harbor Way, Suite 300, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Weiss GJ, Infante JR, Chiorean EG, Borad MJ, Bendell JC, Molina JR, Tibes R, Ramanathan RK, Lewandowski K, Jones SF, Lacouture ME, Langmuir VK, Lee H, Kroll S, Burris HA. Phase 1 study of the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of TH-302, a hypoxia-activated prodrug, in patients with advanced solid malignancies. Clin Cancer Res 2011; 17:2997-3004. [PMID: 21415214 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-10-3425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objectives of this phase 1, first-in-human study were to determine the dose-limiting toxicities (DLT), maximum tolerated dose (MTD), safety, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary activity of the hypoxia-activated prodrug TH-302 in patients with advanced solid tumors. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN TH-302 was administered intravenously over 30 to 60 minutes in two regimens: three times weekly dosing followed by 1 week off (arm A) and every 3-week dosing (arm B). RESULTS Fifty-seven patients enrolled (arm A: N = 37 and arm B: N = 20). The TH-302 dose was escalated from 7.5 to 670 mg/m(2) in arm A and from 670 to 940 mg/m(2) in arm B. The most common adverse events were nausea, skin rash, fatigue, and vomiting. Hematologic toxicity was mild and limited. Grade 3 skin and mucosal toxicities were dose limiting at 670 mg/m(2) in arm A; the MTD was 575 mg/m(2). In arm B, grade 3 fatigue and grade 3 vaginitis/proctitis were dose limiting at 940 mg/m(2); the MTD was 670 mg/m(2). Plasma concentrations of TH-302 and the active metabolite Br-IPM (brominated version of isophosphoramide mustard) increased proportionally with dose. Two partial responses were noted in patients with metastatic small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and melanoma in arm A at 480 and 670 mg/m(2). Stable disease was observed in arms A and B in 18 and 9 patients, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The MTD of TH-302 was 575 mg/m(2) weekly and 670 mg/m(2) every 3 weeks. Skin and mucosal toxicities were DLTs. On the basis of responses in metastatic melanoma and SCLC, further investigations in these indications were initiated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glen J Weiss
- Virginia G Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare/TGen, Scottsdale, Arizona 85238, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Reddy SB, Williamson SK. Tirapazamine: a novel agent targeting hypoxic tumor cells. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2009; 18:77-87. [PMID: 19053884 DOI: 10.1517/13543780802567250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor hypoxia remains one of the greatest challenges in the treatment of solid tumors, as cancer cells in these regions are resistant to killing by radiation therapy and most anticancer drugs. Tirapazamine (TPZ) is a newer class of cytotoxic drugs with selective toxicity towards hypoxic mammalian cells. OBJECTIVE This article reviews the mechanism of action, toxicity and antitumor activity of the drug and provides insights into factors that may have contributed to the disappointing results in some of the Phase III trials. It also identifies the need to explore dependable markers of tumor hypoxia and limit future trials of this agent to patients who have significant populations of hypoxic tumor cells. METHODS We reviewed all clinical trials published to date and present a summary of the results. There are also several ongoing studies, the results of which are pending and may yet impact the clinical use of the drug. RESULTS/CONCLUSION Despite the very promising results obtained in various preclinical studies and early-Phase clinical trials, several Phase III trials have failed to demonstrate any survival benefit of adding TPZ to chemotherapy or radiation therapy in non-small cell lung cancer or head and neck cancer. Several clinical trials have yet to be completed and reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Srini B Reddy
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, 2330 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Suite 210, Westwood, KS 66205, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Le QTX, Moon J, Redman M, Williamson SK, Lara PN, Goldberg Z, Gaspar LE, Crowley JJ, Moore DF, Gandara DR. Phase II study of tirapazamine, cisplatin, and etoposide and concurrent thoracic radiotherapy for limited-stage small-cell lung cancer: SWOG 0222. J Clin Oncol 2009; 27:3014-9. [PMID: 19364954 PMCID: PMC2702233 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2008.21.3868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2008] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A SWOG pilot study (S0004) showed that tirapazamine (TPZ) when combined with concurrent chemoradiotherapy yielded a promising median survival of 22 months in limited-stage small-cell lung cancer (LSCLC). We report results of the phase II study designed to confirm this result. PATIENTS AND METHODS The concurrent phase consisted of two cycles of cisplatin, etoposide, and once-daily radiation to 61 Gy. TPZ was given at 260 mg/m(2) on days 1, 29, and at 160 mg/m(2) on days 8, 10, 12, 36, 38, and 40. Consolidation consisted of two cycles of cisplatin and etoposide. Complete responders received prophylactic cranial irradiation. Results were considered promising if the median survival time was at least 21 months and of no further interest if < or = 14 months. RESULTS S0222 was closed early due to a report of excess toxicity for TPZ in a head and neck cancer trial elsewhere. Of planned 85 patients, 69 were accrued. In 68 assessable patients, 17 (25%) had grade 3 to 4 esophagitis and eight (12%) had grade 3 febrile neutropenia during the concurrent phase. There were three possible treatment-related deaths, two in concurrent phase (one progressive disease not otherwise specified within 30 days, one pericardial effusion) and one in consolidation phase (esophageal hemorrhage). At a median follow-up of 35 months, median progression-free survival was 11 months (95% CI, 10 to 13 months) and median overall survival was 21 months (95% CI, 17 to 33 months). CONCLUSION S0222 showed acceptable levels of toxicity and similar promising median survival as S0004. Further study of hypoxia-targeted therapy is warranted in LSCLC.
Collapse
|
16
|
Adam M, Bayer C, Henke J, Grosu A, Molls M, Nieder C. Tirapazamine plus cisplatin and irradiation in a mouse model: improved tumor control at the cost of increased toxicity. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2007; 134:137-46. [PMID: 17622558 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-007-0260-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2007] [Accepted: 06/06/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tirapazamine (TPZ) reportedly enhances the tumor cell killing effect of cisplatin up to fivefold and it is an attractive drug for combination with radiotherapy. We evaluated the toxicity of a fractionated combined treatment. METHODS Murine RIF-1 fibrosarcomas growing on the right hind foot of C3-H mice were used. Within 2 weeks, animals were treated with six i.p. injections of TPZ (43.2-172.8 mg/kg total), and/or cisplatin (24 mg/kg total) and ten fractions of 2 Gy to the tumor. All treatments were carried out under anesthesia. Maximum follow-up was 35 days. The local tumor control was determined by calculating the tumor doubling time t (2vo). In addition to standard toxicity assessment, the major inner organs were examined histologically. RESULTS The administration of low TPZ doses to the cisplatin/radiotherapy treatment caused only little changes in tumor doubling time (t (2vo)) and led to a lethality rate of 15-30%. Higher TPZ doses caused an increase in t (2vo), but also a further increase in lethality and toxicity in particular to the heart, liver, kidney and stomach. Cisplatin/radiotherapy treatment without TPZ produced no severe toxicity. CONCLUSIONS This is a detailed study of both the acute and delayed toxicities of combined TPZ treatment in a mouse model. In our study the addition of TPZ to the cisplatin/radiotherapy treatment caused a significant increase in toxicity with only moderate effect on the tumor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Adam
- Radiotherapy Practice Weilheim, Weilheim, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tatum JL, Kelloff GJ, Gillies RJ, Arbeit JM, Brown JM, Chao KSC, Chapman JD, Eckelman WC, Fyles AW, Giaccia AJ, Hill RP, Koch CJ, Krishna MC, Krohn KA, Lewis JS, Mason RP, Melillo G, Padhani AR, Powis G, Rajendran JG, Reba R, Robinson SP, Semenza GL, Swartz HM, Vaupel P, Yang D, Croft B, Hoffman J, Liu G, Stone H, Sullivan D. Hypoxia: importance in tumor biology, noninvasive measurement by imaging, and value of its measurement in the management of cancer therapy. Int J Radiat Biol 2007; 82:699-757. [PMID: 17118889 DOI: 10.1080/09553000601002324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 463] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The Cancer Imaging Program of the National Cancer Institute convened a workshop to assess the current status of hypoxia imaging, to assess what is known about the biology of hypoxia as it relates to cancer and cancer therapy, and to define clinical scenarios in which in vivo hypoxia imaging could prove valuable. RESULTS Hypoxia, or low oxygenation, has emerged as an important factor in tumor biology and response to cancer treatment. It has been correlated with angiogenesis, tumor aggressiveness, local recurrence, and metastasis, and it appears to be a prognostic factor for several cancers, including those of the cervix, head and neck, prostate, pancreas, and brain. The relationship between tumor oxygenation and response to radiation therapy has been well established, but hypoxia also affects and is affected by some chemotherapeutic agents. Although hypoxia is an important aspect of tumor physiology and response to treatment, the lack of simple and efficient methods to measure and image oxygenation hampers further understanding and limits their prognostic usefulness. There is no gold standard for measuring hypoxia; Eppendorf measurement of pO(2) has been used, but this method is invasive. Recent studies have focused on molecular markers of hypoxia, such as hypoxia inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) and carbonic anhydrase isozyme IX (CA-IX), and on developing noninvasive imaging techniques. CONCLUSIONS This workshop yielded recommendations on using hypoxia measurement to identify patients who would respond best to radiation therapy, which would improve treatment planning. This represents a narrow focus, as hypoxia measurement might also prove useful in drug development and in increasing our understanding of tumor biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James L Tatum
- National Cancer Institute, Executive Plaza North, Room 6000, 6130 Executive Boulevard, Rockville, MD 20852-7440, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Rosenberg A, Knox S. Radiation sensitization with redox modulators: A promising approach. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2006; 64:343-54. [PMID: 16414370 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2005.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2004] [Revised: 10/14/2005] [Accepted: 10/21/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Radiation therapy plays a critical role in the local and regional control of malignant tumors. Its efficacy, however, is limited by a number of factors, including toxicity, tumor hypoxia, and tumor genetics. Recent attempts to enhance the efficacy of radiation therapy have focused on biologic agents that modulate reduction/oxidation reactions within tumor cells. METHODS AND MATERIALS We review five promising redox modulators that are in development. Tirapazamine and AQ4N are known as "hypoxic cell sensitizers" and are toxic in areas of low oxygen tension. RSR13 facilitates delivery of oxygen to tumor cells, thereby rendering them more sensitive to radiation. Motexafin gadolinium, with a porphyrin-like structure, selectively accumulates in tumor cells and thereby enhances radiation-induced DNA damage. HIF-1 inhibitors target a transcription factor that regulates hypoxia-related events and cell survival. RESULTS Our review of each agent included a thorough search of published preclinical and clinical data, including that presented in abstracts and posters at international meetings. Our objectives were not to identify a superior mechanism or drug, but rather to summarize the available safety and efficacy data. CONCLUSION Clearly, there is an unmet need for safer agents that augment the efficacy of radiation therapy. This review highlights five promising redox modulators that are in development. None has yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These drugs were selected for discussion because they exemplify the current investigative landscape of radiosensitizers and are indicative of future directions in this area. These radiation sensitizers have the potential to succeed where others have failed, by locally increasing the radiosensitivity of tumor cells without enhancing that of surrounding normal tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abby Rosenberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305-5152, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Le QT, Taira A, Budenz S, Jo Dorie M, Goffinet DR, Fee WE, Goode R, Bloch D, Koong A, Martin Brown J, Pinto HA. Mature results from a randomized Phase II trial of cisplatin plus 5-fluorouracil and radiotherapy with or without tirapazamine in patients with resectable Stage IV head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Cancer 2006; 106:1940-9. [PMID: 16532436 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.21785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this article was to report the results from a randomized trial that evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of adding tirapazamine (TPZ) to chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). METHODS Sixty-two patients with lymph node-positive, resectable, TNM Stage IV HNSCC were randomized to receive either 2 cycles of induction chemotherapy (TPZ, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil [5-FU]) followed by simultaneous chemoradiotherapy (TPZ, cisplatin, and 5-FU) or to receive the same regimen without TPZ. Patients who did not achieve a complete response at 50 Grays underwent surgical treatment. Stratification factors for randomization included tumor site, TNM stage, and median tumor oxygen tension. The primary endpoint was complete lymph node response. RESULTS The addition of TPZ resulted in increased hematologic toxicity. There was 1 treatment-related death from induction chemotherapy. The complete clinical and pathologic response rate in the lymph nodes was 90% and 74% for the standard treatment arm and the TPZ arm, respectively (P = .08) and 89% and 90% at the primary site in the respective treatment arms (P = .71). The 5-year overall survival rate was 59%, the cause-specific survival rate was 68%, the rate of freedom from recurrence was 69%, and the locoregional control rate was 77% for the entire group. There was no difference with regard to any of the outcome parameters between the 2 treatment arms. The significant long-term toxicity rate also was found to be similar between the 2 arms. CONCLUSIONS The addition of TPZ increased hematologic toxicity but did not improve outcomes in patients with resectable, Stage IV HNSCC using the protocol administered this small randomized study. The combination of induction and simultaneous chemoradiotherapy resulted in excellent survival in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quynh-Thu Le
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Smith HO, Jiang CS, Weiss GR, Hallum AV, Liu PY, Robinson WR, Cheng PC, Scudder SA, Markman M, Alberts DS. Tirapazamine plus cisplatin in advanced or recurrent carcinoma of the uterine cervix: a Southwest Oncology Group study. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2006; 16:298-305. [PMID: 16445649 DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1438.2006.00339.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine objective response and overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) following cisplatin plus tirapazamine treatment in eligible consenting patients with metastatic or recurrent squamous or adenosquamous carcinoma of the cervix. Treatment consisted of intravenous tirapazamine, 260 mg/m(2), followed by cisplatin, 75 mg/m(2), every 21 days for six cycles. Of 56 registered cases, 52 were evaluable for toxicity. There were six grade 4 toxicities (anemia [three], dyspnea [one], neutropenia/granulocytopenia [one], and dehydration [one]). Fifty-three patients were evaluable for response, OS, and PFS. The 6-month OS rate was 56.6% (95% CI 43.3-69.9%). The objective response rate was 32.1% (4 complete [2 confirmed and 2 unconfirmed] and 13 partial [8 confirmed and 5 unconfirmed]). Higher response rates (16/34 [47.1%] vs 1/19 [5.3%], P= 0.0018) were observed in patients who had not previously received radiation-sensitizing chemotherapy, as were OS and PFS (13.9 vs 4.0 months, P < 0.0001; 5.3 vs 1.8 months, P= 0.01). The OS was considered too low to warrant further testing in this disease setting. Despite this, tirapazamine plus cisplatin was active in patients who had not received cisplatin previously. Prior use of radiosensitizing chemotherapy impacted response and survival significantly and should be considered in future clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H O Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1 University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, MSC 10 5580, Albuquerque, NM 87131-5286, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
Relapse of neuroblastoma commonly occurs in hypoxic tissues, and is associated with an acquired and sustained high-level drug resistance, often due to p53 loss of function. Abrogating p53 function with HPV 16 E6 transduction in drug-sensitive neuroblastoma cell lines caused high-level drug resistance. Tirapazamine (TPZ) is a bioreductive agent that forms a toxic free radical in hypoxia. We determined in six neuroblastoma cell lines the cytotoxicity of TPZ using DIMSCAN, a digital imaging fluorescence assay, apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsim) by flow cytometry, and protein expression by immunoblotting. TPZ exhibited high cytotoxicity, especially in hypoxia (2% O2), for all four p53-functional neuroblastoma cell lines, achieving >3 logs of cell kill (LC99 < or = 0.7 microg/mL). In p53-nonfunctional neuroblastoma cell lines, all TPZ LC99 values were >3.0 microg/mL (average clinically achievable level). TPZ (24 hours) induced apoptosis in >46% of cells in p53-functional cell lines but failed to cause apoptosis in p53 nonfunctional cell lines. Induction of p53 and p21 expression by TPZ was observed in a p53-functional cell line (SMS-SAN) but not in a p53-nonfunctional cell line (CHLA-90). Significant DeltaPsim loss and glutathione (GSH) depletion in response to TPZ was observed in p53-functional cell lines (SMS-SAN, SMS-SAN EV, and CHLA-15) but not in p53-nonfunctional cell lines (SMS-SAN E6 and CHLA-90). N-Acetylcysteine inhibited TPZ-mediated DeltaPsim loss and GSH depletion, but neither N-acetylcysteine nor Boc-d-fmk inhibited apoptosis caused by TPZ. In response to TPZ, DeltaPsim loss preceded apoptosis. Thus, TPZ cytotoxicity for neuroblastoma cell lines in hypoxia occurred via a p53-dependent mitochondrial pathway that caused induction of p53 and p21, DeltaPsim decrease, GSH depletion, and apoptosis. These data further define the mechanism of action of TPZ and suggest that as a single agent, TPZ would only have clinical activity against p53-functional neuroblastomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yang
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, USC-CHLA Institute for Pediatric Clinical Research, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, California
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Shibamoto Y, Sugie C, Ito M, Ogino H. The Japanese experiences with hypoxia-targeting pharmacoradiotherapy: from hypoxic cell sensitisers to radiation-activated prodrugs. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2005; 5:2459-67. [PMID: 15571464 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.5.12.2459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Tumour hypoxia is a negative factor in cancer radiotherapy. In order to overcome the problem, various pharmacotherapies have been investigated as an adjunct to radiotherapy. The use of hypoxic cell sensitisers is a classical strategy, and many new compounds have been developed and investigated. Development of more efficient compounds than those currently available seems difficult and clinical studies to prove the efficacy of the existing compounds are encouraged, especially in combination with radiosurgery, intraoperative radiotherapy, and interstitial irradiation, in which a single high dose of radiation is used. Following the advent of hypoxic cell sensitisers, hypoxic cytotoxins have become available. Among them, tirapazamine has already gained success when combined with cisplatin in non-small cell lung cancer. The beneficial effect of tirapazamine when combined with radiation needs to be determined. As a third-generation compound in this field, antitumour prodrugs that are activated by irradiation under hypoxic conditions via one-electron reduction have been proposed. Prodrugs of 5-fluorouracil and 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine have shown in vivo as well as in vitro activity. Although clinical evaluation of the compounds is not warranted due to a relatively low in vivo effect, this strategy appears promising if the prodrug design can be applied to more potent agents that shall be developed in future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Shibamoto
- Nagoya City University, Department of Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Le QT, McCoy J, Williamson S, Ryu J, Gaspar LE, Edelman MJ, Dakhil SR, Sides SD, Crowley JJ, Gandara DR. Phase I Study of Tirapazamine Plus Cisplatin/Etoposide and Concurrent Thoracic Radiotherapy in Limited-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (S0004). Clin Cancer Res 2004; 10:5418-24. [PMID: 15328179 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-04-0436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the feasibility and a recommended phase II dose of tirapazamine when combined with chemoradiotherapy in limited-stage small cell lung cancer (LSCLC). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Concurrent chemoradiotherapy consisted of two cycles of cisplatin, etoposide, and once-daily radiation to 61 Gy. Tirapazamine (260 mg/m2) was given 1 h before cisplatin with planned dose escalation to 330 mg/m2 in the absence of dose-limiting toxicity, defined as > or =33% esophagitis (grade 3 or above). Consolidation therapy consisted of two cycles of tirapazamine (330 mg/m2), cisplatin, and etoposide. Complete responders received prophylactic cranial irradiation. RESULTS Thirty patients were enrolled at the 260 mg/m2 tirapazamine dose. All had performance status of 0-1. By comparison with S9713, a predecessor Southwest Oncology Group study in LSCLC that used the same concurrent chemoradiotherapy without tirapazamine, the present trial showed a higher rate of grade 3-4 esophagitis (34% versus 22%), vomiting (34% versus 23%), and febrile neutropenia (7% versus 2%). The consolidation phase was relatively well tolerated, with grade 4 neutropenia in 44% and febrile neutropenia in 5% of patients. There were two treatment-related deaths: one from neutropenic fever and one from respiratory infection. The overall response rate was 80%, and the median survival was 22 months. CONCLUSIONS Protocol-defined dose-limiting toxicity was observed at the initial tirapazamine dose, precluding dose escalation. Compared with S9713, the addition of tirapazamine increased the incidence of vomiting, neutropenia, and febrile neutropenia, although the overall toxicity profile remained acceptable. In view of the observed favorable survival, further study of tirapazamine in LSCLC is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quynh-Thu Le
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-5847, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Maxim PG, Carson JJL, Ning S, Knox SJ, Boyer AL, Hsu CP, Benaron DA, Walleczek J. Enhanced Effectiveness of Radiochemotherapy with Tirapazamine by Local Application of Electric Pulses to Tumors. Radiat Res 2004; 162:185-93. [PMID: 15387146 DOI: 10.1667/rr3200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Tumor hypoxia is associated with resistance to radiotherapy and anticancer chemotherapy. However, it can be exploited to therapeutic advantage by concomitantly using hypoxic cytotoxins, such as tirapazamine (TPZ). Tumor electroporation offers the means to further increase tumor hypoxia by temporarily reducing tumor blood flow and therefore increase the cytotoxicity of TPZ. The primary objective of this work was to determine whether electric pulses combined with TPZ and radiotherapy (electroradiochemotherapy) was more efficacious than radiochemotherapy (TPZ + radiation). In these studies using the SCCVII tumor model in C3H mice, electroradiochemotherapy produced up to sixfold more tumor growth delay (TGD) than TPZ + radiation. In these studies, (1) large tumors (280 +/- 15 mm3) responded better to electroradiochemotherapy than small tumors (110 +/- 10 mm3), (2) TGD correlated linearly with tumor volume at the time of electroradiochemotherapy, (3) electric pulses induced a rapid but reversible reduction in O2 saturation, and (4) the electric field was highest near the periphery of the tumor in a 3D computer model. The findings suggested that electroradiochemotherapy gained its therapeutic advantage over TPZ + radiation by enhancing the cytotoxic action of TPZ through reduced tumor oxygenation. The greater antitumor effect achieved in large tumors may be related to tumor morphology and the electric-field distribution. These results suggest that electro-pulsation of large solid tumors may be of benefit to patients treated with radiation in combination with agents that kill hypoxic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter G Maxim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Aquino VM, Weitman SD, Winick NJ, Blaney S, Furman WL, Kepner JL, Bonate P, Krailo M, Qu W, Bernstein M. Phase I Trial of Tirapazamine and Cyclophosphamide in Children With Refractory Solid Tumors: A Pediatric Oncology Group Study. J Clin Oncol 2004; 22:1413-9. [PMID: 15084615 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2004.07.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the dose limiting toxicity (DLT), maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), and pharmacokinetic profile of tirapazamine (Sanofi Synthelabo Research, Malvern, PA) combined with cyclophosphamide in children with recurrent solid tumors. Patients and Methods Patients received a 2-hour infusion of tirapazamine, followed by 1,500 mg/m2 cyclophosphamide, and mesna once every 3 weeks. Dose escalation of tirapazamine began at 250 mg/m2 and was increased by 30% in subsequent cohorts. If DLT was hematologic, less-heavily pretreated patients were to be enrolled until their DLTs were encountered, and MTDs defined. Pharmacokinetic profiles were also characterized. Results Twenty-three patients were enrolled onto the study. Pharmacokinetic data were calculated for 22 patients. Prolonged neutropenia was the DLT at 420 mg/m2 in heavily pretreated patients. Grade 3, reversible ototoxicity was the DLT in less-heavily pretreated patients at 420 mg/m2. Two (one with neuroblastoma and one with rhabdomyosarcoma) had partial responses. One child with neuroblastoma had prolonged stable disease (10 cycles) at a dose of 250 mg/m2. This patient had disease detectable in the bone marrow only and all evidence of bone marrow involvement resolved for 17 cycles of therapy. Four other patients had stable disease. An apparent dose-proportional increase in tirapazamine maximal concentration and area under the curvelast was observed. Tirapazamine clearance, volume of distribution at steady-state, and terminal half-life did not appear to be dose-dependent. Conclusion The recommended dose of tirapazamine given with 1,500 mg/m2 of cyclophosphamide once every 3 weeks is 325 mg/m2. Neutropenia and ototoxicity were dose-limiting. Based on early evidence of antitumor activity, additional studies appear warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor M Aquino
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chao KSC, Ozyigit G, Tran BN, Cengiz M, Dempsey JF, Low DA. Patterns of failure in patients receiving definitive and postoperative IMRT for head-and-neck cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2003; 55:312-21. [PMID: 12527043 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(02)03940-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 318] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze the patterns of locoregional failure in patients with head-and-neck cancer treated with inverse planning intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). METHODS AND MATERIALS Between February 1997 and December 2000, 165 patients with histologically confirmed head-and-neck cancer were treated using a parotid-sparing inverse planning IMRT protocol. Thirty-nine patients who received either palliative repeat irradiation or IMRT as a boost were excluded from this analysis, leaving 126 patients for this analysis. Of the 126 patients, 30 were women and 96 were men (median age 56 years, range 13-84). Fifty-two patients (41%) received definitive IMRT. Of the 52 patients, 17 were treated with RT alone and 35 with concurrent cisplatin-based chemotherapy regimens. Seventy-four patients (59%) received postoperative IMRT. The median follow-up was 26 months (range 12-55). IMRT was used only in the upper neck for salivary sparing. The lower neck was treated with a conventional AP low-neck port abutted to the inferior IMRT dose distribution border. The radiation dose was prescribed to the two clinical target volumes (CTVs) according to the assumed risk of containing disease. The mean dose for definitive IMRT patients was 72.64 +/- 4.83 Gy to CTV1 and 64.34 +/- 5.15 Gy to CTV2. The mean dose to CTV1 and CTV2 in postoperative cases was 68.53 +/- 4.71 Gy and 60.95 +/- 5.33 Gy, respectively. The locations of failure were analyzed. RESULTS Seventeen locoregional failures (persistent or recurrent disease) were found. Of these 17 failures, 9 (53%) were inside CTV1. One failure (6%) was marginal to CTV1 but inside CTV2. One failure (6%) occurred outside CTV1 but inside CTV2. Another failure was marginal to CTV2. Of the 17 failures, 5 (28%) were found outside of the IMRT field and in the lower neck. Dose-volume histogram analysis revealed that for all but 1 patient, the recurrent/persistent disease within the CTVs received comparable or superior dose coverage relative to the CTV. The 2-year actuarial locoregional control rate was 85%, and the ultimate locoregional control rate after surgical salvage was 89%. We observed no dermal failure and only one marginal failure in the region adjacent to the spared parotid glands. CONCLUSION We have shown that the target definition and coverage for patients treated with IMRT for parotid sparing is adequate. The predominant tumor failure within CTV1 may imply the need to identify patients with radioresistant tumor subvolumes (such as hypoxic regions) within the CTV. This information would assist in discriminating a subgroup of tumors for a more aggressive and target-specific therapeutic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K S Clifford Chao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University Medical School, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
The field of radiation oncology continues to develop at a rapid pace, due to concurrent progress in high speed computing, improved sensitivity in diagnostic imaging (both anatomic and physiologic), and the introduction of rational new therapeutics built on solid radiobiologic principles. These innovations will become critically important in the field of pediatric oncology, as they will allow for an increased therapeutic ratio in the developing child. Maximizing the benefit of lower dose radiation through the use of radiation modifiers (hypoxic cell sensitizers, signal transduction pathway inhibitors, concurrent chemotherapy), increasing the tolerance of normal tissues (radioprotectors) and tailoring the target area more closely to the desired critical tissues (IMRT, functional simulation with PET and MRS, radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies) will lessen the short and long term toxicity of radiation and increase its effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Swift
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Alta Bates Hospital, Berkeley CA 94704, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Poggi MM, Coleman CN, Mitchell JB. Sensitizers and protectors of radiation and chemotherapy. Curr Probl Cancer 2001; 25:334-411. [PMID: 11740469 DOI: 10.1067/mcn.2001.120122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M M Poggi
- Radiation Oncology Sciences Program, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Xu S, Zakian K, Thaler H, Matei C, Alfieri A, Chen Y, Koutcher JA. Effects of Motexafin gadolinium on tumor metabolism and radiation sensitivity. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2001; 49:1381-90. [PMID: 11286846 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(00)01566-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Experiments were undertaken to determine if metabolic changes induced by Motexafin gadolinium (Gd-Tex(+2), XCYTRIN) predict time intervals between drug and radiation wherein there is enhancement of radiation efficacy. METHODS AND MATERIALS We evaluated the effect of Gd-Tex(+2) on tumor metabolism and on tumor growth using a mouse mammary carcinoma model and (31)P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments. Response to therapy was evaluated based on time for the tumor to regrow to pretreatment size and also tumor doubling time. RESULTS (31)P NMR experiments indicated that Gd-Tex(+2) effected tumor energy metabolism during the first 24 hours postadministration. A decrease in phosphocreatine was noted at 2 (p < 0.04), 6 (p < 0.006), and 24 (p < 0.001) hours post Gd-Tex(+2). A decrease in nucleoside triphosphates was noted only at 2 hours (p < 0.02), with subsequent recovery at 6 hours. Phosphocreatine in control (saline treated) tumors showed a significant decrease only at 24 hours (p < 0.01). Irradiation at 2 and 6 hours post Gd-Tex(+2) induced an enhanced effect compared to radiation alone as measured by analyzing the growth curves, maximum tumor volumes, and the time for the tumors to regrow to their initial volumes. Irradiation at 24 hours post Gd-Tex(+2) induced a modest enhancement in tumor growth delay compared to radiation alone. DISCUSSION NMR spectroscopy may be useful for monitoring tumor metabolism after treatment with Gd-Tex(+2) and administering radiation during the time of maximal efficacy of Gd-Tex(+2).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Xu
- Department of Medical Physics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Chao KS, Bosch WR, Mutic S, Lewis JS, Dehdashti F, Mintun MA, Dempsey JF, Perez CA, Purdy JA, Welch MJ. A novel approach to overcome hypoxic tumor resistance: Cu-ATSM-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2001; 49:1171-82. [PMID: 11240261 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(00)01433-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Locoregional tumor control for locally advanced cancers with radiation therapy has been unsatisfactory. This is in part associated with the phenomenon of tumor hypoxia. Assessing hypoxia in human tumors has been difficult due to the lack of clinically noninvasive and reproducible methods. A recently developed positron emission tomography (PET) imaging-based hypoxia measurement technique which employs a Cu(II)-diacetyl-bis(N(4)-methylthiosemicarbazone) (Cu-ATSM) tracer is of great interest. Oxygen electrode measurements in animal experiments have demonstrated a strong correlation between low tumor pO(2) and excess (60)Cu-ATSM accumulation. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) allows selective targeting of tumor and sparing of normal tissues. In this study, we examined the feasibility of combining these novel technologies to develop hypoxia imaging (Cu-ATSM)-guided IMRT, which may potentially deliver higher dose of radiation to the hypoxic tumor subvolume to overcome inherent hypoxia-induced radioresistance without compromising normal tissue sparing. METHODS AND MATERIALS A custom-designed anthropomorphic head phantom containing computed tomography (CT) and positron emitting tomography (PET) visible targets consisting of plastic balls and rods distributed throughout the "cranium" was fabricated to assess the spatial accuracy of target volume mapping after multimodality image coregistration. For head-and-neck cancer patients, a CT and PET imaging fiducial marker coregistration system was integrated into the thermoplastic immobilization head mask with four CT and PET compatible markers to assist image fusion on a Voxel-Q treatment-planning computer. This system was implemented on head-and-neck cancer patients, and the gross tumor volume (GTV) was delineated based on physical and radiologic findings. Within GTV, regions with a (60)Cu-ATSM uptake twice that of contralateral normal neck muscle were operationally designated as ATSM-avid or hypoxic tumor volume (hGTV) for this feasibility study. These target volumes along with other normal organs contours were defined and transferred to an inverse planning computer (Corvus, NOMOS) to create a hypoxia imaging-guided IMRT treatment plan. RESULTS A study of the accuracy of target volume mapping showed that the spatial fidelity and imaging distortion after CT and PET image coregistration and fusion were within 2 mm in phantom study. Using fiducial markers to assist CT/PET imaging fusion in patients with carcinoma of the head-and-neck area, a heterogeneous distribution of (60)Cu-ATSM within the GTV illustrated the success of (60)Cu-ATSM PET to select an ATSM-avid or hypoxic tumor subvolume (hGTV). We further demonstrated the feasibility of Cu-ATSM-guided IMRT by showing an example in which radiation dose to the hGTV could be escalated without compromising normal tissue (parotid glands and spinal cord) sparing. The plan delivers 80 Gy in 35 fractions to the ATSM-avid tumor subvolume and the GTV simultaneously receives 70 Gy in 35 fractions while more than one-half of the parotid glands are spared to less than 30 Gy. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the feasibility of a novel Cu-ATSM-guided IMRT approach through coregistering hypoxia (60)Cu-ATSM PET to the corresponding CT images for IMRT planning. Future investigation is needed to establish a clinical-pathologic correlation between (60)Cu-ATSM retention and radiation curability, to understand tumor re-oxygenation kinetics, and tumor target uncertainty during a course of radiation therapy before implementing this therapeutic approach to patients with locally advanced tumor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K S Chao
- Radiation Oncology Center, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Denny WA, Wilson WR. Tirapazamine: a bioreductive anticancer drug that exploits tumour hypoxia. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2000; 9:2889-901. [PMID: 11093359 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.9.12.2889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Tirapazamine is the second clinical anticancer drug (after porfiromycin) that functions primarily as a hypoxia-selective cytotoxin. Hypoxic cells in tumours are relatively resistant to radiotherapy and to some forms of chemotherapy and are also biologically aggressive, thus representing an important target population in oncology. Tirapazamine undergoes metabolism by reductases to form a transient oxidising radical that can be efficiently scavenged by molecular oxygen in normal tissues to re-form the parent compound. In the absence of oxygen, the oxidising radical abstracts a proton from DNA to form DNA radicals, largely at C4' on the ribose ring. Tirapazamine can also oxidise such DNA radicals to cytotoxic DNA strand breaks. It therefore shows substantial selective cytotoxicity for anoxic cells in culture (typically approximately 100-fold more potent than under oxic conditions) and for the hypoxic subfraction of cells in tumours. Preclinical studies showed enhanced activity of combinations of tirapazamine with radiation (to kill oxygenated cells) and with conventional cytotoxics, especially cisplatin (probably through inhibition of repair of cisplatin DNA cross-links in hypoxic cells). Phase II and III clinical studies of tirapazamine and cisplatin in malignant melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer suggest that the combination is more active than cisplatin alone and preliminary results with advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck indicate that tirapazamine may enhance the activity of cisplatin with fractionated radiotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W A Denny
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1000, New Zealand.
| | | |
Collapse
|